What Evidence Do Consumers Need To Provide When Reporting Price Gouging?

When reporting price gouging, consumers should gather specific evidence to support their claims. This documentation can help authorities effectively investigate and address the issue.

Evidence to Provide

1. Receipts or Proof of Purchase:
   • Consumers should provide copies of receipts or invoices that clearly show the purchase price of the goods or services in question. This establishes a baseline for what was charged.
2. Price Comparisons:
   • Documenting prices from other retailers before and during the crisis can demonstrate that the reported price is significantly higher than usual. Screenshots, photos, or notes can serve as effective comparisons.
3. Photographic Evidence:
   • Taking photos of the product with its price tag, signage, and any relevant advertisements can help corroborate claims. This visual evidence can be crucial for investigations.
4. Date and Time of Purchase:
   • Providing the date and time of the transaction can help authorities track pricing trends and determine if the price increase coincided with the crisis.
5. Description of the Situation:
   • Consumers should include a detailed description of the circumstances surrounding the purchase, including the context of the crisis and any other relevant factors that may indicate exploitative pricing.
6. Witness Statements:
   • If others experienced similar pricing issues, collecting statements from additional consumers can strengthen the report. This can show a pattern of gouging rather than isolated incidents.

Example

If a consumer paid significantly more for bottled water during a heatwave, they should keep the receipt, take a photo of the water with the price tag, and gather information on what competitors were charging at the same time.

By providing comprehensive evidence, consumers can enhance the effectiveness of their reports, aiding authorities in addressing price gouging and ensuring fair market practices.